IPSY Subscription: What It Costs and How to Use It Wisely in 2025

If you’re scrolling through Instagram and see endless unboxings, you’ve probably wondered how much an IPSY subscription really costs. The answer isn’t just a single number – there are three plans, hidden fees, and timing tricks that can change what you pay each month.

Breakdown of the Three IPSY Plans

The basic Glow plan gives you a monthly bag of four deluxe‑size products for about £12.99. It’s the cheapest way to test new makeup, and you still get a mix of lip, eye, and skin items. The Plus plan steps it up to five products, including at least one full‑size item, and the price rises to roughly £19.99. Finally, the Premier plan delivers six products, a full‑size cleanser, and early access to limited‑edition launches for around £29.99 per month.

All three plans charge you on a recurring basis, so the amount you see on your bank statement will match the plan you chose. If you switch plans mid‑month, IPSY usually prorates the change, but it’s best to check the account page to avoid surprise charges.

First‑Month Billing and Hidden Fees

Most people think the first charge happens as soon as you sign up. In reality, IPSY typically starts the billing cycle on the first day of the month after you register. That means if you sign up on the 25th, you’ll get a free trial bag and your first payment will appear on the 1st of the next month.

There are a few extra costs to watch out for. Shipping is free for U.S. members, but UK customers pay a £3.95 delivery fee each month unless you have a Premier plan, which includes free shipping. Some limited‑edition items have a small surcharge (usually £1‑£2) that appears on the billing statement.

To keep the cost low, use the “skip a month” option if you have a bag you don’t need. Skipping is free, but you must do it at least five days before the next shipment ships – otherwise you’ll be charged for a bag you never receive.

Another hidden cost is the “early access” fee on Premier. While it sounds like a perk, you’ll only see a real benefit if you buy the exclusive items right away; otherwise you’re paying extra for a chance you might not take.

Overall, the average monthly spend for most members lands between £13 and £20, depending on plan and shipping.

Now that you know the numbers, here are three quick tips to squeeze the most value from your IPSY subscription:

• Match the plan to your routine. If you only need a few new shades a year, the Glow plan is enough. If you love trying full‑size products, upgrade to Plus.
• Take advantage of the “swap” feature. You can swap one product in your bag for something else before it ships. This helps you avoid items you already own.
• Watch for holiday promos. IPSY often runs “double bag” deals in November and December. That’s a chance to get twice the products for the price of one.

Bottom line: an IPSY subscription can be a cheap way to discover new makeup, but only if you pick the right plan, skip months you don’t need, and keep an eye on shipping fees. With these basics, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying and can enjoy the surprise without the surprise bill.